Question 1

What is Elaeagnus latifolia used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Elaeagnus latifolia is used in Sri Lankan Ayurvedic medicine primarily for its astringent and tonic properties. The fruit, bark, and leaves have been employed in traditional preparations targeting digestive complaints and general wellbeing. Its use should always be guided by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Question 2

Is Elaeagnus latifolia found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Elaeagnus latifolia grows naturally in Sri Lanka, particularly in hill country forest margins, stream banks, and areas with moderate moisture and partial shade. It is part of the island's documented Ayurvedic medicinal plant catalog.

Question 3

Can you eat the fruit of Elaeagnus latifolia?

Accepted Answer

The ripe fruit of Elaeagnus latifolia is edible and has a sour, astringent flavour. It is sometimes consumed fresh in communities where the plant grows naturally. Unripe fruit is significantly more astringent and is generally not eaten raw.

Question 4

What family does Elaeagnus latifolia belong to?

Accepted Answer

Elaeagnus latifolia belongs to the family Elaeagnaceae. The genus Elaeagnus includes around 90 species distributed across Asia, Europe, and North America, many of which share the characteristic silvery scaling on stems and leaves.

Question 5

What are the active compounds found in Elaeagnus latifolia?

Accepted Answer

Research has identified flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenoids in various parts of the plant. These compounds are broadly linked to antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies, though large-scale clinical trials in humans are still limited.

Question 6

How is Elaeagnus latifolia different from other Elaeagnus species?

Accepted Answer

Elaeagnus latifolia is distinguished by its scrambling growth habit, elongated red-orange fruit, and distribution across tropical and subtropical South and Southeast Asia. Other commonly known species such as Elaeagnus umbellata grow in cooler, more temperate zones and differ in fruit and flower characteristics.

Question 7

Where can I learn more about Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic plant traditions?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka's Department of Ayurveda maintains records of traditional medicinal plants and licensed practitioners across the island. Academic resources from the University of Kelaniya's Institute of Indigenous Medicine and Peradeniya's Royal Botanic Gardens are also valuable references for the island's ethnobotanical heritage.

Elaegnus latifolia